⚠️ Timetables, prices and access conditions may change without notice, for reasons beyond our control (season, weather, decisions by operators, venues or local authorities). Before every trip, check the information with the relevant authorities and service providers.
The city’s airline flies direct from Paris to Xiamen (about 11 h 40) several times a week, as well as from Amsterdam and London.
Official websitexiamenair.com→Hong Kong–Xiamen flights of about 1 h 15 to 1 h 30, connecting with flights from Europe.
Official websiteflights.cathaypacific.com→Direct high-speed trains from Hong Kong West Kowloon, in about 3 h 30 to 4 h; booking on the Chinese railways website.
Official website12306.cn→The City of Xiamen website gathers information on entering China and transit facilities.
Official websitexm.gov.cn→How long does it take to get to Xiamen?
With the direct Xiamen Airlines flight, allow about 11 h 40 from Paris. Via Hong Kong, allow 15 to 18 hours including the connection. Gulangyu is then a 20-minute ferry ride away.
| Route | Duration | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Paris → Xiamen | ≈ 11 h 40 | Direct flight, Xiamen Airlines |
| Paris → Hong Kong | ≈ 12 h | Direct flight, Air France or Cathay Pacific |
| Hong Kong → Xiamen | ≈ 1 h 15 to 1 h 30 | Direct flight |
| Hong Kong West Kowloon → Xiamen North | ≈ 3 h 30 to 4 h | High-speed train |
| Xiamen → Gulangyu | ≈ 20 min | Ferry |
New Xiang’an airport
The new Xiang’an International Airport, north-east of the city, is due to replace the current Gaoqi airport; it is scheduled to open at the end of 2026. Check the departure or arrival airport on your ticket, especially when travelling around that date.
Entry and arrival
Citizens of France and many other European countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days until 31 December 2026; no extension has yet been announced for 2027. Check the rules for your nationality. On arrival, set up Alipay or WeChat Pay: both accept Visa and Mastercard. Your passport is also needed to buy ferry and train tickets.
When to go?
The climate is subtropical: autumn (October–November) and spring are the most pleasant seasons. Summer is hot and humid, with a risk of typhoons from July to September. If possible, avoid Chinese holidays (New Year, 1 May, early October), when Gulangyu is very crowded.
Are there direct flights from Europe?
Yes: Xiamen Airlines flies non-stop to Xiamen from Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam and London, several times a week. Check flight days by season.
Can I get to Xiamen by train from Hong Kong?
Yes: direct high-speed trains leave West Kowloon station for Xiamen North, in about 3 h 30 to 4 h.
Do I need a visa?
Until 31 December 2026, citizens of France and many other European countries can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days. For 2027, and for other nationalities, check the rules before you travel.
How do I get from the airport to Gulangyu?
Take a taxi, DiDi or the metro to the Dongdu ferry terminal (or Lundu pier in the evening), then the ferry to Gulangyu. Your passport is required to buy the ticket.
Xiamen is one of the few Chinese cities with a non-stop link to Paris: Xiamen Airlines operates a direct flight several times a week. Otherwise, fly via Hong Kong, from where you reach Xiamen by plane or high-speed train. Gulangyu has no airport: it is reached by ferry from Xiamen.
Header photo: Yundang Lake, Xiamen — Xmhaoyu, CC BY 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons